Dive (American football)

A "dive" (or "plunge") is a type of play in American football in which the ball carrier (usually a fullback or a halfback) attempts to rush through one of the gaps immediately to the left or right of center, denoted as the A gap. It may be run with or without a lead blocker, though when run with a lead blocker it may be called a "lead dive". It is often, though not always, used in short-yardage situations, specifically at the goal line. This play is used with Fullbacks or larger, stronger, less prone to fumbling running backs because this play values strength over speed.